Quick Comparison
RSMeans (Gordian) is positioned as a estimating product. Here is how it lines up against CyanBuild on the features contractors actually compare.
| Feature | RSMeans (Gordian) | CyanBuild |
|---|---|---|
| AI takeoff from PDF | No | Yes, built in |
| Cost database | Yes | Yes, plus your own pricing |
| AIA G702/G703 billing | No | Yes, built in |
| Cloud-based | Varies | Yes |
| Pricing | ~$396–$42,000+/year | Free: 3 PDF pages per month; Starter: $29/month for 30 PDF pages; Pro: $99/month for 120 PDF pages; Enterprise: $299/month for 400 PDF pages |
| All-in-one (takeoff + estimating + billing) | No | Yes |
RSMeans (Gordian) pros and cons
RSMeans (Gordian) pros
- 92,000+ unit cost line items
- 970 location factors
- Gold standard for cost data
RSMeans (Gordian) cons
- Cost data only, no takeoff
- Expensive full library
- No estimating workflow or billing
Why switch from RSMeans (Gordian) to CyanBuild
- One platform for takeoff, estimating, and AIA billing instead of separate tools.
- AI takeoff from PDF — no manual clicking and counting.
- Monthly PDF page allowances: Free: 3 PDF pages per month; Starter: $29/month for 30 PDF pages; Pro: $99/month for 120 PDF pages; Enterprise: $299/month for 400 PDF pages. Check current plan features and terms.
- Your estimate flows directly into AIA G702/G703 billing and sub management.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does RSMeans (Gordian) cost?
RSMeans (Gordian) pricing: Tiered data subscriptions by dataset. Reported pricing: ~$396–$42,000+/year. Confirm the vendor's current terms. CyanBuild uses monthly subscriptions with page allowances: Free: 3 PDF pages per month; Starter: $29/month for 30 PDF pages; Pro: $99/month for 120 PDF pages; Enterprise: $299/month for 400 PDF pages. Paid subscriptions renew even when usage is low; see /pricing for current features and terms.
Does RSMeans (Gordian) have AI takeoff?
RSMeans (Gordian) relies on manual takeoff — clicking and counting each element. CyanBuild detects and counts doors, windows, walls, and other elements from your PDF automatically.
Can I replace RSMeans (Gordian) with CyanBuild?
For takeoff and estimating, yes. CyanBuild also includes AIA G702/G703 billing and subcontractor management, which RSMeans (Gordian) does not.
Is there a free alternative to RSMeans (Gordian)?
CyanBuild's Free plan includes 3 PDF pages each month without a credit card. Use a representative drawing, check the detected quantities against your plan, and compare the review work before choosing a paid monthly plan.
Why switch from RSMeans (Gordian) to CyanBuild?
CyanBuild combines AI takeoff, cost estimating, and AIA billing in one platform. Compare its supported workflow with the features you use in RSMeans (Gordian), then choose a monthly PDF page allowance that fits your workload. Verify quantities and rates before using them in a bid.